Hematological, Biochemical, and Oxidative Stress Changes in Lambs with Atresia Ani

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 DVM Graduate, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran

2 Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Lorestan, Iran;

3 Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University—Garmsar Branch, Garmsar, Iran

4 Resident of veterinary surgery and anesthesia, Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University, Mashhad, Iran

5 Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran

10.30466/vrf.2025.2065164.4822
Abstract
Anal atresia (AA) is a congenital anorectal malformation commonly observed in neonatal lambs, characterized by the failure of the anal membrane to break down, resulting in the absence of an anal opening. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are critical to improve survival and outcomes in affected lambs. This study aimed to evaluate the hematobiochemical and oxidative stress responses in neonatal lambs with non-segmental AA undergoing surgical interventions. A total of 45 male lambs diagnosed with non-segmental AA were included, divided into two subgroups based on the timing of presentation: one subgroup presented within 24 hours of birth, and the other between 24 to 72 hours. Hematological and biochemical markers, including white blood cell count (WBC), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total protein, C-reactive protein (CRP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were measured at presentation and again 3 days post-operative. Surgical interventions were performed on all lambs, and follow-up assessments were conducted for 30 days. Significant differences in hematobiochemical indices and oxidative stress markers were observed between the AA group and healthy controls. Early surgical intervention (within 24 hours) resulted in reducing levels of urea, fibrinogen(FBG) and CRP. Additionally, early surgery was associated with lower MDA levels and higher SOD activity, suggesting a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation. Our findings underscore the importance of early surgical intervention in neonatal lambs with anal atresia. Timely surgery not only improves hematological outcomes but also mitigates oxidative damage, contributing to better overall health and recovery.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 13 July 2026

  • Receive Date 08 July 2025
  • Revise Date 29 August 2025
  • Accept Date 11 October 2025